The Bishop Parker Foundation recently awarded $159,000 to the New College Foundation to launch a scholarship program that offers academically qualified high school students from Manatee County and transfer students from State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota the opportunity to attend New College of Florida, the State of Florida’s designated Honors College. MaryAnne Young, vice president of advancement and executive director of New College Foundation, says this grant can have life-changing results for the Manatee County students it empowers.
“A first-rate education opens up so many possibilities,” Young says. “It leads each individual’s mind to a better understanding of the world and who they are. Aside from personal growth, it also jump-starts top career opportunities.”
Young adds that the supportive services and focused environment of New College’s residential campus provide exactly what students need.
“Having a framework to follow and a mentor to guide you makes a world of difference for some students,” she says. “That’s the help they need — and it’s what New College offers. I’m thrilled we can provide that help — and so deeply grateful for the Bishop Parker Foundation’s support in making that possible.”
According to Declan Sheehy, director of philanthropy at New College, the grant will provide direct scholarship support for qualified Manatee County students to attend New College. A portion of the funds will also be used for student activities and engagement, internships, and support to assist student retention and success, in addition to helping further build a network of working partners.
“We continue to build relationships with public and private high schools in Manatee County,” says Sheehy. “That’s been our longstanding goal at New College Foundation and we are grateful to the Bishop Parker Foundation for bringing it closer within our grasp.”
According to Adell Erozer, executive director of the Bishop Parker Foundation, “our Foundation is pleased to partner with New College of Florida to expand and support educational opportunities for Manatee County students. We anticipate the contribution of students the scholarships support will have a major positive impact in our community.”
For more information about this grant or the New College Foundation, call 941-487-4800 or visit www.ncf.edu/alumni/foundation/
About the Bishop Parker Foundation
Edward E. and Lillian H. Bishop and Mary E. Parker dedicated their financial resources and love for the arts, education, science and animals for many years and their Foundation continues to carry out their mission. The Mission of the Bishop Parker Foundation is to strengthen the Manatee County Community by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations which are working to improve the lives of individuals and animals. The Foundations achieve this by prioritizing funding in health, human services, education, the arts, environment, and animal welfare.